The effect of multiple ınterventions for women at risk for cervical cancer on their health responsibility, beliefs regarding cervical cancer and having screening: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract This study was intended to analyze the effect of multiple initiations on beliefs about cervical cancer, health responsibility, and screening participation. In total, 134 women aged 40–55 years, who were at risk of cervical cancer and had never had a Pap smear before, were randomly assigned to the experimental (n = 67) and control (n = 67) groups. The 14 weeks of sessions involving the experimental group included group training on cervical cancer, counselling, reminder phone calls and delivery materials, all aimed to increase motivation to be screened regularly for cervical cancer. The control group received the usual care. The study data were collected using an information form, the Health Belief Model Scale, the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale II and the Assessment Form for Undergoing Pap-Smear Test. After the multiple interventions, there was a significant difference between the experimental and control group’s Health Responsibility, Pap smear benefit and motivation, obstacle and health motivation scores (P < 0,05). The participation rate of women in the experimental group to cervical cancer screening was found to be 93%. Multiple nursing interventions (group training, counselling, reminder phone calls and delivery materials) were effective in increasing participation in cervical cancer screening programs.